The announcement of Australia’s team for the first Ashes Test was punctuated by a sharp exchange, as stand-in captain Steve Smith responded to suggestions that England should target him over past controversies.
Smith confirmed that batsman Jake Weatherald and fast bowler Brendan Doggett will make their Test debuts in Perth. The side is without its regular captain, Pat Cummins, who is nearing a return to fitness, and Josh Hazlewood, whose availability for the second Test remains uncertain. Marnus Labuschagne returns to the number three position following prolific domestic form, with Cameron Green slotting back to number six.
However, the team reveal was overshadowed by Smith’s pointed reaction to comments from former England spinner Monty Panesar. In prior remarks, Panesar had advocated for England to apply psychological pressure on Smith by referencing the 2018 ball-tampering scandal.
When asked about these suggestions, Smith diverted the conversation to Panesar’s much-publicised appearance on a television quiz show several years ago. “For anyone who hasn’t seen it, do yourself a favour—it’s quite comical,” Smith told reporters. “Someone who thinks Athens is in Germany, or that Oliver Twist is a season… those sorts of comments don’t really bother me.”
This retort prompted a fresh response from Panesar, who interpreted Smith’s reaction as a sign the topic remains a sensitive point. “It’s 100% still in his head,” Panesar stated, adding that England’s players should view it as “a piece of ammunition.”
Smith’s reaction seemed at odds with his stated approach to the pre-series buildup. “There’s always so many words said before the series,” he noted earlier. “For us, it’s about ignoring the outside and concentrating on our processes.”
On the field, Smith strongly indicated a preference to bat first if he wins the toss, a tactic he has favoured overwhelmingly in his captaincy tenure. He expressed confidence in Labuschagne’s return, stating his best form at number three significantly strengthens the Australian lineup.
England, who will finalise their side after a final training session, are focused on overturning historical precedent. Captain Ben Stokes acknowledged the difficulty of winning an Ashes series in Australia but emphasised his team’s ambition. “We’ve come here with a goal,” Stokes said, “and that goal is to return to England as Ashes winners.”
The series begins on Friday with both sides aiming to seize the early initiative.